Simple MachinesCENTRAL IDEA: To meet basic needs, humans have developed tools and simple machines which use physical forces.
Enduring understandings
Essential questions
  • There are 6 types of simple machines
  • Simple machines use forces
  • Simple machines are used to meet human needs
  • Tools are simple machines that help us do work.
  • Simple machines can be combined
  • What is a simple machine?
  • What is a tool?
  • What is a force?
  • What is friction?
  • Why were simple machines invented?
  • How do simple machines work and how are they used?
  • What are the 6 types of simple machines?
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Click here for a 16 minute film that introduces simple machines.

Search for any of the following keywords in an encyclopedia such as Britannica or on WebPath Express on the library catalogue to find information about simple machines:
Simple Machines, Gears, Wedges, Inclined Planes, Screw, Wheel and Axel, Levers, Pulleys
Use the same keywords to search for books in the ISL Library Catalogue


Click here for an interactive simulation about simple machines from Edhead.


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Gears
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Pulley
Websites

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Lever
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Wedge
Streaming Videos

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Inclined Plane
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Screw
Games & Quizzes

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Wheel and Axle


Experiments


for Teachers: